Tuscaloosa Checkers Open Again After New Owner Saves Store & Staff Jobs

A fast food favorite on Tuscaloosa's 15th Street is open again after a new owner stepped in to save the location and another in Huntsville, protecting the jobs of many who worked there.

As the Thread reported earlier this year, the Checkers at 521 15th Street was shuttered and closed for business for several weeks. In a press release shared with the Thread, a company spokesperson said that the previous owner had stepped away from the business, resulting in the closure of Tuscaloosa's double-drive-through location and another on University Drive in Huntsville.

Both stores are open again, thanks to seasoned franchise owner Sedrick Turner's acquisition of both locations. Turner, the President of Global Midsouth Corporation, now operates 16 Checkers and Rally's restaurants in Alabama, Missouri, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

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“With every restaurant we operate, we aim to elevate the guest experience, strengthen our team, and serve the surrounding community,” Turner said. “I’ve spent over three decades building and leading franchise operations, and I believe success comes from staying hands-on, empowering your people, and delivering consistent quality. Huntsville and Tuscaloosa are dynamic markets with great energy, and I’m excited to be part of their continued growth. These locations represent a chance to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve.”

The acquisition also ensured continued opportunities for the staff at both locations, according to the press release.

Robert Bhagwandat, Senior Director of Franchise Development at Checkers Drive-In Restaurants, praised Turner as a proven leader for the brand.

“Sedrick is the kind of franchisee every brand hopes to attract—experienced, driven, and deeply committed to both people and performance,” Bhagwandat said. “He understands what it takes to run great restaurants and grow with purpose. As he brings his leadership to these Huntsville and Tuscaloosa locations, we’re confident they’ll continue to thrive under his direction.”

Their addictively seasoned French fries, famous burgers, milkshakes, and more are available now at the open-again Checkers on 15th Street.

For more coverage of restaurant and retail development in West Alabama, stay connected to the Tuscaloosa Thread.